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The 4^th of July has always been one of my favorite holidays. Summer is here full force and we get to celebrate our country’s freedom with cold drinks while baking in the hot sun. The 4^th of July is a celebration of escapism as our lives are temporarily suspended for the sake of family, friends and good times. This year, however, the good times are seen in stark contrast to the devastation that has come in the months leading up to the 4^th. Tornadoes have overwhelmed Oklahoma, (), while tropical storm Chantal .  Now that the 4^th of July holiday is over and we’re back to reality, it’s time to make sure you’re fully prepared to defend your home and your family from the destructive nature of this year’s weather. 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A TORNADO

1. The first step you should take in preparing for a tornado or a hurricane is to build an emergency kit. This should include food, water bottles, a radio and a flashlight at a bare minimum. For a full list of items you can visit . 
2. Communication with your family before and after a storm is critical, so make sure to have a plan in place and that everyone knows how to get in contact with one another. 
3. Compiling a list of important contacts and insurance information will also be extremely helpful in case of an emergency.
4. Just as important is making copies of birth certificates and social security cards. 
5. Visit for all of the information on how you should respond depending on where you are when a tornado touches down.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR A HURRICANE

In the event of a hurricane there is usually more time to prepare in advance, so take advantage of this if you live in an area that may be affected. 

1. First, you should find out the elevation level of your property and if it is flood-prone. 
2. If a hurricane is on the way, cover all your windows with 5/8” marine plywood.
3. By keeping trees and shrubs around your home well-trimmed you can make them more wind resistant and less likely to do damage to your home.   
4. Also, make sure to keep your rain gutters clear and unclogged.
5. Map out locations away from home where you can stay and meet up with family.
6. As mentioned above, make sure to compile a list of important contacts and prepare a disaster kit.  

Here are some of the disaster kit supplies that you can get from ��������: